Clivias - Timeless Elegance: Varieties and Care

clivias perennialsClivias are adored for their lush, evergreen foliage and clusters of vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers. These shade-loving perennials are a perfect choice for Bay Area gardens, thriving in dappled light with minimal water needs. But what makes Clivias truly special is the patience and dedication of our growers, who carefully cultivate them into the exceptional perennials that will reward gardeners with long-lasting beauty for years to come.

A Brief History of Clivias

Native to South Africa, Clivias were first brought to Europe in the 1800s and named after Lady Charlotte Clive, the Duchess of Northumberland. Since then, their popularity has spread, particularly in regions with mild, Mediterranean climates like the Bay Area. Over the years, plant breeders have developed striking new hybrids—such as Akebono—with unique colors and patterns, making them even more desirable for home landscapes.

Years in the Making – A Perennial Worth the Waitclivias perennials about to bloom

Unlike many other flowering plants, Clivias take their sweet time to mature for our growers, often taking 3–5 years to cultivate from seed to their impressive blooming stage. This lengthy cultivation process ensures that by the time they reach our stores and ultimately you, these perennials are already well-established and ready to thrive.

The patience and care invested in growing Clivias is well worth it—once mature, they reward gardeners with low-maintenance elegance. Blooming reliably each year, their vibrant trumpet-shaped flowers last for weeks, while their lush, evergreen foliage adds year-round beauty to shaded garden beds, containers, or under trees where other plants struggle.

3 Stunning Clivia Varieties

1. Clivia Hybrid Orangeclivias perennials

  • Color: Classic deep orange with a golden center
  • Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
  • Highlights: This traditional Clivia variety is known for its bold, trumpet-shaped blooms that brighten up shaded garden spaces. It thrives under trees, along north-facing walls, or in covered patios.

2. Clivia Yellow (Solomone Hybrid)yellow clivias perennials

  • Color: Soft golden yellow
  • Bloom Time: Spring
  • Highlights: A rare and sought-after variety, this hybrid produces clusters of warm yellow flowers. It offers the same resilience as the orange Clivia but with a softer, more refined color palette.

3. Akebono Cliviaclivia akebono perennial

  • Color: A striking gradient of peach, apricot, and soft orange
  • Bloom Time: Late winter to early spring
  • Highlights: One of the most unique Clivia varieties, Akebono showcases a stunning color transition—from golden yellow at the base of the bloom to soft peachy-orange at the tips. What truly sets this variety apart, however, is its striking variegated foliage, which creates a dynamic contrast. Its rare beauty makes it a collector’s favorite.

clivias in landscapeCompanion Plants for Clivia

Clivias pair beautifully with a variety of shade-loving plants, creating a lush and dynamic garden display. Here are some excellent companion plants:

Foliage Companions

  • Ferns (e.g., Western Sword Fern, Japanese Painted Fern) – Add soft texture and contrast to Clivia’s bold leaves.
  • Hostas – Provide a mix of colors and patterns that complement Clivia’s deep green foliage.
  • Cast Iron Plant – A tough, shade-loving plant with deep green leaves that harmonizes well with Clivias.

Flowering Companions

  • Hellebores (Lenten Rose) – Early bloomers that provide color when Clivias are just emerging.
  • Cyclamen – Another winter-to-spring bloomer that thrives in similar conditions.
  • Anemones – Delicate flowers that add contrast to Clivia’s bold blooms.

Groundcovers & Accents

  • Liriope (Lilyturf) – Offers a grassy texture and occasional purple blooms.
  • Heuchera (Coral Bells) – Features colorful foliage that complements Clivia’s flowers.
  • Ajuga (Bugleweed) – A fast-growing groundcover with purple or bronze foliage.

How to Care for Clivias in the Bay Areaorange clivia perennial

Clivias are incredibly low-maintenance once established. Follow these care tips to ensure they thrive:

Light Requirements

  • Best in bright yet indirect light or partial to full shade
  • Keep in mind, too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while deep shade may reduce blooming

Watering Needs

  • Low water requirement once established—perfect for drought-conscious gardeners
  • Water deeply but infrequently (once every 10–14 days in dry conditions)
  • Reduce watering in fall and winter to encourage blooming

Soil & Fertilizer4 lb box of e.b. stone organics all purpose plant food or fertilizer

  • Prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter
  • Feed with a balanced fertilizer, like All Purpose Plant Food from E.B. Stone Organics in spring and summer for strong blooms
  • Avoid over-fertilizing, as too much nitrogen can lead to fewer flowers

Cold Tolerance & Protection

  • Hardy in USDA zones 9–11, perfect for the Bay Area’s coastal and inland microclimates
  • Can tolerate brief dips into the 30s but should be protected from frost

Long-Term Care

  • Remove old, yellowing leaves for a clean, healthy plant
  • Divide overcrowded clumps every 4–5 years to encourage better blooming

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Add Clivias to Your Garden Today!

Whether you choose the classic Hybrid Orange, the rare Solomone Yellow, or the delicate Akebono Clivia, these plants bring timeless elegance to Bay Area gardens. With their low water needs, shade tolerance, and stunning flowers, they’re a must-have for any gardener looking to create a lush, thriving landscape with minimal effort.